Arabic version: مانشستر سيتي يستهدف دفاعاً أقوى عن لقب دوري السوبر للسيدات

According to BBC News, Manchester City captain Alex Greenwood says the champions must improve rather than simply repeat last season’s approach as competition in the Women’s Super League strengthens.

City won their first WSL title in a decade in 2025-26, finishing six points ahead of Chelsea with a game to spare, and also lifted the Women’s FA Cup. It was their first major trophy under manager Andree Jeglertz, in his debut campaign in England, ending Chelsea’s six-year dominance.

Greenwood said the squad learned “how to become champions” after previous near misses. City return to European football this season, bringing a busier fixture schedule, while top scorer Khadija Shaw has signed a new contract. England internationals Beth Mead and Niamh Charles have joined, although Brazilian forward Kerolin has left for Barcelona.

Rivals have also recruited heavily. Arsenal added Ona Batlle and Georgia Stanway, London City Lionesses signed two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, and Tottenham brought in Kirsty Hanson and Shekiera Martinez. Brighton have also been rising under manager Dario Vidosic.

Greenwood said City should maintain their culture and standards but recognise that other teams will improve. “You act like a champion and perform like one,” she said, adding that the title holders will need to change some things and become better. The England defender is also aiming to help the Lionesses progress at next summer’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil.